A Comprehensive Guide
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice that affects millions of girls and women around the world. The United Nations has designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation to raise awareness and encourage action towards ending this harmful practice.
Understanding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
FGM refers to all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The practice is deeply rooted in cultural and social beliefs and is often performed as a rite of passage into adulthood or as a means of controlling women’s sexuality.
There are four main types of FGM, ranging from partial or total removal of the clitoris to stitching or narrowing of the vaginal opening. FGM has no health benefits and can cause a range of physical, psychological, and sexual problems, including severe pain, bleeding, infections, and long-term health complications.
The Impact of Female Genital Mutilation on Girls and Women
FGM is a violation of the human rights of girls and women, including the right to physical integrity, freedom from violence and discrimination, and the right to health. The practice can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of affected individuals, as well as their families and communities.
In addition to the physical and health impacts of FGM, the practice also contributes to gender inequality and reinforces negative gender norms and stereotypes. FGM can also lead to social and economic marginalization, as girls and women who have undergone FGM may face discrimination and reduced opportunities for education and employment.
The Global Fight to End Female Genital Mutilation
The international community has made significant progress in the fight against FGM in recent years, with many countries enacting laws and policies to criminalize the practice and protect the rights of girls and women. However, much work remains to be done to end FGM once and for all.
UNICEF, along with its partners, is working to end FGM through a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the practice and supports girls and women affected by FGM. This includes providing access to education, promoting gender equality, and supporting the implementation of laws and policies to protect the rights of girls and women.
Conclusion
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation provides an opportunity to raise awareness and encourage action to end this harmful practice. By working together to address the root causes of FGM and supporting girls and women affected by the practice, we can help build a future in which every girl and woman is free from violence and discrimination.
Announcement: The Freedom Team and Kate Nash have worked tirelessly towards a fundraising event raising money to support Freedom Charity, which is dedicated to providing support to survivors of forced marriage and those who have experienced the horrors of female genital mutilation (FGM). The charity was founded by Aneeta Prem MBE, a leading human rights advocate and campaigner against FGM and forced marriage.
Guts Gallery is proud to announce an online sales exhibition to support this important cause and raise money for the Freedom Charity. The exhibition is a unique opportunity to view and purchase art while making a difference in the lives of survivors of FGM and forced marriage.
The show will be available to view via @guts_gallery on Mon 6 Feb 2023, which is the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation and continues until 20 Mar 2023. Join us in supporting this worthy cause and making a difference in the lives of survivors.